With a record 990 construction projects scheduled this year, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding motorists to be “work zone aware,” and think safety for themselves, other drivers, and all roadside workers. In addition, ODOT is teaming up with the Ohio State Highway Patrol, other law enforcement agencies and local media to raise awareness about work zone driving laws.
“At ODOT, we work hard to design and maintain the safest possible driving conditions through highway work zones,” said ODOT Director Jerry Wray. “But accidents can and do happen, especially in work zones, and it’s up to all of us to keep those accident numbers down.
“We also hope drivers will remember that a work zone can be a mile of barrels and barricades, or a single vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road,” Director Wray added. “No matter the case, it means someone is out doing their job, and it’s Ohio’s law to slow down and move over so they can do it safely.”
In 2014, more than 5,100 crashes occurred in ODOT work zones—the equivalent of one every two hours. More than 1,000 people were injured and seventeen lost their lives. State and national statistics show that motorists are twice as likely than construction workers to be injured in work zone crashes.
March 23 through 25 marks National Work Zone Awareness Week. To make work zones safer for everyone, ODOT offers these driving tips:
- Don’t Speed. Reducing your speed to 45 mph through a two-mile work zone adds less than a minute to your commute.
- Stay Alert. In work zones, traffic lanes may shift or close; large, slow-moving equipment may enter or exit the highway, or other drivers may respond unexpectedly. Watch for barrels and directional signs, obey flaggers and be aware of workers and other drivers.
- Know Before You Go. Visit Ohgo.com or follow your local traffic reporters for up-to-date construction information
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